Choir Students Return From Memorable European Tour

Choir Students Return From Memorable European Tour

June 8, 2012

The BVU Concert Chorale performed in Paris and London on its 2012 European tour following the end of the school year. This marked the program’s fourth European Tour since 2003 under the direction of Dr. Paula Keeler, assistant professor of music.

On May 29, the Chorale, the touring ensemble of the BVU Concert Choir, performed at the American Cathedral in Paris. On June 3 — during the central weekend of the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II — the Chorale performed at St. Leonard’s, Shoreditch. Sixteen students accompanied by BVU faculty members participated in the trip.

“We knew the Queen’s Jubilee would happen while we were in London but we had no idea of the significance to the English people or to the world,” says Keeler. “The streets of London were packed with patriots. The activities we experienced included public parades with the Royal family; performances dedicated to the Queen ranging from rock to symphony concerts; and best of all a lunch planned for our choir by the congregation members of St. Leonard’s after the Sunday service. We enjoyed the food and the welcoming attitude towards the BVU Choir on the historic service. We will not forget singing in London.”

“Performing solos with the choir has always been fun at our regular concerts at home, but actually getting the chance to conduct the choir in Paris and London was an even greater experience. It's an opportunity that few can say they've had,” says Jacob Pedersen, a junior music major from Manson. “The trip has impacted me positively. It allowed us to see how different our cultures are as well as how similar they can be. No matter what country you’re in everyone can understand the language of music.”

The Chorale also visited the Louvre, Normandy Beach, the Eiffel Tower, the Cathedral at Chartres and Versailles while in Paris. In London, the group visited the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Cathedral, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Oxford University, art galleries, Stonehenge and the Natural History Museum.